Time Conundrum: Angel vs Man View

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the perception of time as observed by an Angel and a Man regarding two clocks in different frames of reference. It explores concepts from special relativity, particularly how time is perceived when one clock is moving relative to another, and the implications of observing these clocks without accounting for the time light takes to travel.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a scenario where an Angel observes two clocks, one stationary and one moving, and questions whether the Angel sees the clocks showing the same time or different times.
  • Another participant asserts that the Angel would see the moving clock ticking more slowly, indicating a difference in the readings of the two clocks.
  • A third participant challenges the initial assumption that the Angel can observe both clocks instantaneously without considering the light travel time, stating that this contradicts the principles of special relativity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the feasibility of the Angel's observations under the assumptions made. There is no consensus on the implications of the Angel's perspective on the readings of the clocks.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in the assumptions made about instantaneous observation and the implications of special relativity, which are not resolved within the thread.

fxdung
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Consider two clocks in two frames.First time they meet each other and we adjust the index of the needles the same number.After that they move apart each other.If there is an Angel who stands at one clock and observes two clocks.Suppose the Angel directly sees distant clock,but needs not to adjust the time that the light travel from the clock to the eyes of the Angel.What does the Angel see the two clocks?.Does the needles point different or same number in the eyes of the Angel?I think that certainly there is a difference in the eyes of the Angel and the Man.If in the eyes of Angel the two locks point different number then we meet the contradictions because we are freely to choose which clock being in motion.
 
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He sees the moving clock tick more slowly. He sees the needle of the moving clock point to a smaller number.

If I understand you, you imagine two clocks A and B, and an Angel who stands beside clock A. The other clock, B, moves away from where the Angel and clock A are. You say to imagine that the Angel can read both clocks, instantaneously. Neglect the time it takes for light to travel to him from clock B, that is moving away. Somehow he can tell what clock B says. So at any given moment he can tell what both clocks say.
 
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fxdung said:
Suppose the Angel directly sees distant clock,but needs not to adjust the time that the light travel from the clock to the eyes of the Angel.

Special relativity says that this is impossible. It doesn't make sense to state an assumption that is inconsistent with a theory, and then ask what a theory predicts under that assumption.
 
As bcrowell said.

Thread closed.
 

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